The North Highlands is very well connected by the main north to south route – the A9. Archaeology lovers will enjoy a visit to Orkney, which is covered in Neolithic and Viking sites just waiting to be discovered. Nature lovers should pay a visit to the many birdwatching sites around the area, St John’s Pool being within a couple of miles from the Hawthorns. The local site at Duncansbay Head is well known for it’s ocean visitors as well, with orca and dolphins regularly spotted. This site is also a well known puffin nesting area, although care is suggested when negotiating the cliff paths!
The Hawthorns is also a superb location for outdoors enthusiast. Cyclists and walkers will enjoy negotiating the many small quiet country roads down to secluded bays and inlets where if you are lucky you may find seals basking in the sunshine, or even playing offshore. Surfers and beach lovers will enjoy the local beach at Dunnet, which has recently ranked as one of the best in Scotland by SEPA for it’s cleanliness.
This part of the Northern Highlands is now part of the North Coast 500, a continuous circuit starting and finishing in Inverness. It really is one of the most dramatic and scenic areas in Europe and combines incredible scenery with fascinating and exciting attractions. The Hawthorns is a superb choice for those who want to travel along this amazing route.
